Addressing the Problem of Non-response and Response Bias

Authors

Fabian C. Okafor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, EnuguFollow

Keywords

Non-response; Response Bias; Non-sampling error; Response error

Abstract

Survey planners and analysts in Nigeria have devoted much more attention to sampling errors at the expense of nonsampling errors (non-response and response errors). Sampling error is the degree to which the sample estimate differs from the average value of the characteristic due to chance. The present discussion will be centered on non-sampling error, which may present serious deficiencies in the statistics and render the survey useless. According to Platek and Gray (1986), “Non-response has been generally recognized as important measure of the quality of data since it affects the estimates by introducing a possible bias in the estimates and an increase in sampling variance because of reduced sample.” They continued by saying that “in a practical way, the size of non-response may indicate the operational problems and provide an insight into the reliability of survey data.” There is need therefore to study the nature and effect of non-response in the surveys conducted in the country.

Author Bio

The author is from the University of Nsukka, Department of Nigeria.

Publication Title

CBN Journal of Applied Statistics

Issue

1

Volume

1

Recommended Citation

Okafor, Fabian C. (2010) "Addressing the Problem of Non-response and Response Bias," CBN Journal of Applied Statistics (JAS): Vol. 1: No. 1, Article 7.
Available at: https://dc.cbn.gov.ng/jas/vol1/iss1/7